is for Builders

Our Story

Technology has changed a lot in 20 years, but our values haven’t.

Burkson was founded in 1999 as a software development company, with roots stemming from the video game industry. Our founder, Dane Emerson, got his start at Nintendo and then went on to launch several of his own video game companies, working on multi-platform projects with THQ and Playmates Toys.

This background in video game technology is what inspired Burkson’s first product, RideStyler, a vehicle visualization application for wheels, tires and suspension. We focused primarily on expanding this technology for about a decade, driving the RideStyler platform to become the leading enterprise visualization solution for the automotive aftermarket industry. We’ve been fortunate enough to build long-term relationships with national tire and wheel retail companies like Les Schwab Tire Centers, Tire Kingdom and Big O Tires.

When mobile devices began to proliferate in the mid to late 2000s, we also began providing custom web and mobile software solutions. This has included projects like dealer portals, marketing websites, eLearning platforms, and hybrid mobile apps. While our background in automotive certainly gives us a unique expertise in that space, our clients come from a variety of industries. We have had the privilege of working with a variety of fantastic brands including Audi, Booz Allen Hamilton, Porsche, Mazda, Paul Mitchell, Wheel Pros and Yakima.

Empathy

In order to make the right recommendations, and ultimately build the right product, we need to “live in your shoes.” Rather than push you into an off-the-shelf box, we ask questions until we truly understand the pain points you’re dealing with, so we can effectively apply technology to improve processes and drive change.

Expertise

We love what we do, and are constantly striving to become better, both for clients and ourselves. Our company grew out of designing, building and maintaining our own software products, and we bring that knowledge and experience to the solutions we create for our clients.

Execution

This is where the rubber meets the road, and visions become reality. The vast majority of our projects come from client referrals or repeat business within the same organization. When it comes to execution, we think that speaks for itself.

"Purposeful, dedicated, concise, and cooperative are just some of the characteristics that make Burkson an asset to my professional network. The team I work with are consummate professionals that execute their responsibilities with dedication and accuracy. I recommend them unequivocally!"

— Kevin Harvey, Manager, Pre-Owned Business, Porsche

"Wheel Pros developed a great partnership with Burkson and their dedication to our unique needs is evident in all aspects of our suite of custom sites. The attention to detail, deep understanding of our wants and needs, and timely execution of our collaborative vision was truly a highlight to my career."

— Brandon Brouillette, Marketing Director, Wheel Pros

"Finding and partnering with Burkson to reimagine our platform was a game changer for Pre-Approve Me. I have contracted with several other development shops for our platform in the past and we've always had issues with scale. Burkson took the necessary time to understand our long-term objectives so we can grow with our product."

— Michael Neef, Founder & CEO, Pre-Approve Me

"I’ve worked with Burkson on a number of projects with a couple of different companies over the years, and in each engagement, they consistently deliver. They understand developing for the new digital age, and just as importantly, they understand how to work with their clients by listening and finding solutions together."